Campaign groups calling for better care at Tameside Hospital have launched their own charter – after claims that the recommendations from a major review into care at the hospital do not go far enough.

The hospital was placed in special measures last month following the investigation by NHS England director Sir Bruce Keogh who found some areas of care were ‘placing patients at risk’.

Hospital bosses have drawn up an action plan and a major listening exercise to hear the views of staff, patients and their families.

But campaigners – including a leading surgeon – say the plan ‘falls considerably short of what is needed’ and have come up with their own proposals. The seven-point ‘Charter for Change’ has been put together by Tameside Hospital Action Group (THAG) – set up in 2006 by families who had experienced poor care – and the Campaign for Change which was formed by Liz Degnen, of Hadfield, Glossop, following the death of her mum.

Milton Pena, an orthopaedic surgeon who has been disciplined for speaking out about his concerns, has also backed the charter which has been presented to the new chief executive Karen James.

Ms James and medical director Brendan Ryan, both from Wythenshawe Hospital, were parachuted in to help following the publication of the Keogh review and the resignation of former chief executive Christine Green.

Mr Pena, who has worked at Tameside for 17 years, said: “We are at a crossroads and unless the public, employees and the new managers come together and recognise the problems there will be no improvements.”

THAG chairman Rod McCord said: “It is our view that the recommendations of the Keogh review and the subsequent action plan produced by the hospital fall considerably short of what is needed to ensure the welfare and safety of patients.

“The seven demands of the charter are designed to empower patients and their families, strengthen ward leadership, support nursing staff, improve clinical practice, protect whistleblowers and ensure bed capacity meets the needs of the community.

“We will be urging its adoption by the hospital’s new interim chief executive as a matter of urgency.”

Karen James, interim chief executive, said: “We would encourage members of Tameside Hospital Action Group to have their say during our Tameside Listens exercise which was launched on August 1 and lasts for six months.

“Staff are really pleased to be involved in making the necessary improvements and will be establishing their own service and professional standards charter.”